Rating: 
Summary: Randy Live - A must have for Newman fans.
Review: Thank goodness for this DVD. For a late-comer to Randy Newman (and one who lives in Australia), this is the closest I'll ever get to a live performance. Newman fans will know that there's something magic about when it's just Randy and a piano - he makes no mistakes and executes some very tough piano work with ease. There's no denying he's a very skilful pianist with considerable melodic gifts (much more so than the three J's: John, Joel and Jackson). Couple of complaints though, but nothing that should dissuade a fan from buying it. The first, in relation to the performance itself, is that Newman doesn't really sing with much passion. He tends to rush and doesn't necessarily *feel* the music as he plays it ('Marie' feels particularly rushed). But that's quite a subtle thing and he certainly throws a lot of himself into the performance - watch as sweat trickles down his face on 'Christmas in Capetown'. Technically, the DVD quality isn't that flash. There's some background noise that's pervasive, but with mind-power can be shut out. The piano also sounds rather tinny on occasion because of the recording quality. These problems however don't add up to a hill of beans. Ultimately 'Randy Newman Live at the Odeon' is like having your own personal Randy Newman concert in your living room. Surprisingly, the most effective song on the whole DVD is also one of his worst album songs: 'Let's Burn Down the Cornfield'. Ry Cooder adds some moody slide guitar to the mix and it sounds terrific. Other highlights include 'Christmas in Capetown', 'I Love LA', 'Rednecks', 'Sail Away' and an early Newman song 'Linda'. Both Linda Ronstadt and Ry Cooder make guest appearances, and Newman himself entertains the audience with his throwaway gags. "This is going to be one of the most exciting nights of my life," he comments unenthusiastically, going on to say: "I hope it's also one of the most exciting nights of your life too." PS. For another great Newman performance, buy 'Sessions at West 54th Volume II' - he sings 'I Miss You'.
Rating: 
Summary: Just a correction actually
Review: The 11th track, listed as "Guilty", is actually "Baltimore" from the fabulous "Little Criminals" release.
| 
